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SSEMBABULE, The Minister for the Presidency and Member of Parliament for Budiope West Constituency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, joined mourners in Ssembabule District for the burial of the late Mr. Mark Baingana, Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Makindye Division, Kampala.

The late Baingana was laid to rest on Thursday at his ancestral home in Ssembabule.

While delivering the tribute on behalf of Government, Minister Babalanda conveyed condolences from His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataha Museveni, the Permanent Secretary Office of the President, Hajji Yunus Kakande, and the entire staff of the Office of the President.

“It is with deep sorrow that we lay to rest our fallen Deputy RCC for Makindye Division, Mark Baingana. On behalf of the Office of the President, I extend our heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family,” the Minister said.

Minister Babalanda described the late Baingana as a dedicated, disciplined, patriotic and committed public servant who executed his duties under the Office of the President with integrity and professionalism.

“Mark Baingana was also a prayerful and faithful servant of God who could put God first in whatever he intended to do,” she noted.

Quoting Revelation 14:13, the Minister said: “Then I heard a voice from heaven say, ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ ‘Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘they will rest from their labour, for their deeds will follow them.’”

The Minister commended Resident District Commissioners, Resident City Commissioners, Deputies and their Assistants for standing with the bereaved family of their fallen comrade.

“I urge you to maintain that spirit of comradeship. As RDCs, you are the eyes and ears of the President on the ground. Stand together and serve Ugandans with integrity,” she said.

Minister Babalanda applauded residents of Ssembabule District for embracing H.E. President Museveni’s wealth creation agenda, including the 4-Acre Model, Parish Development Model – PDM, Operation Wealth Creation – OWC, and Emyooga.

She said these programmes have helped transform Ssembabule compared to other parts of the country.

“I express sympathy to the bereaved family for the loss of their loved one and also give thanks to God for the gift of life he lived,” she added.

The Minister prayed to the Almighty God to grant strength and comfort to the bereaved family and to grant the soul of their departed colleague eternal rest.

“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” she concluded.

The burial was attended by Government officials, RDCs, RCCs, Local Government leaders, religious leaders, family, and residents of Ssembabule District.

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Uganda’s entertainment and media fraternity is mourning the death of Sanyuka TV producer Badru following a fatal road accident in Namulanda on Entebbe road that also left entertainment presenter Brian Macona critically injured.

The crash occurred in the early hours of Monday as the trio was reportedly returning from the celebrity boxing event between Chicken Chicken and Shawa.

Badru, who worked as a producer and trade marketing officer at Sanyuka TV, died at the scene of the accident. Another occupant, identified as Isaac, also lost his life.

Macona survived the crash and was rushed to Kisubi Hospital, where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). His condition was reported to be critical by Monday morning.

The accident comes only days after Macona survived another road crash, making the latest incident an even more devastating turn of events for the entertainment presenter.

News of the tragedy sent shockwaves through Uganda’s entertainment industry, with fellow journalists, presenters and celebrities taking to social media to mourn Badru and pray for Macona’s recovery.

Media personalities, including Tabz and Bryan Aheebwa, shared heartfelt tributes, remembering Badru as a dedicated colleague while asking the public to keep Macona in their prayers.

Badru had built a reputation as a lifestyle content creator and producer, known for his behind-the-scenes entertainment coverage, celebrity interviews and digital content at Sanyuka TV.

The accident has once again reignited concerns about road safety in Uganda, where traffic crashes continue to claim thousands of lives each year.

Police had not yet released an official statement detailing the cause of the crash or the circumstances surrounding the accident by press time.

More than 60 Independent Members of Parliament have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) today, Thursday, establishing a formal framework for cooperation in Parliament.

The agreement, signed at the Office of the Government Chief Whip, with guidance from the NRM Legal Director, Enoch Barata, allows the legislators to participate in NRM parliamentary caucus meetings, support government business and work with the ruling party in implementing its 2026–2031 manifesto.

The cooperation was witnessed by the NRM Deputy Secretary General, Rt.Hon. Namayanja Rose Nsereko and National Treasurer, Amb. Barbara Nekesa Oudo.

Deputy Secretary General, Namayanja, said the agreement formalises a working relationship that had already begun before the 12th Parliament was sworn in.

Namayanja also credited the Independents for contributing to President Yoweri Museveni’s victory in the general election.

“Many of you contested as independents, but you campaigned alongside President Museveni and contributed to the 71 per cent mandate he received. We are proud of that achievement,” she said.

She explained that many of the legislators had approached the party leadership even before taking the oath of office to express interest in collaborating with the NRM.

“The Memorandum of Understanding is basically creating a framework of collaboration in implementing the NRM Manifesto. Implementation means supporting government positions in Parliament and participating in party activities while carrying out your responsibilities as Members of Parliament.”

Namayanja stressed that the arrangement is founded on mutual goodwill and is not unprecedented.

“This is not the first or second cooperation agreement with Independent Members of Parliament. We have had similar arrangements before, and they have benefited both the party and the Members of Parliament,” Namayanja said.

She added that while the NRM continues to improve the management of its internal elections, it remains the country’s only political party that fields candidates across virtually every elective position nationwide, making its primary elections among the most complex to organize.

Amb. Barbara Nekesa Oundo, the NRM National Treasurer, welcomed the legislators and commended them for choosing to associate with a party which means well for the population.

“We started this journey immediately after the elections when President Museveni advised that Independent Members of Parliament who are NRM-leaning should be invited to participate in the Kyankwanzi retreat,” she said during Thursday’s signing ceremony.

Nekesa emphasised that the agreement should not be interpreted as a formal defection to the ruling party but as formalising working relations.

“These Members of Parliament have not crossed to the NRM. What they have done is create a framework to work with the government in power so that services can easily reach their constituents through implementation of the NRM Manifesto.”

Government Chief Whip, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, said the Independent MPs voluntarily sought the cooperation arrangement with the NRM.

She said the MoU allows them to participate in NRM caucus meetings and support party positions on government business, including Bills and motions before Parliament.

“As Government Chief Whip, I welcome them and look forward to working together in promoting unity, discipline and effective coordination in Parliament to ensure better service delivery to the population,” Dr Acheng said.

Speaking on behalf of the Independent legislators, Rwampara East MP, who is also their whip, Charles Ngabirano, said the decision was driven by the need to ensure their constituents benefit from the implementation of the manifesto endorsed by Ugandan voters.

“Political parties contest elections on the basis of their manifestos, and Ugandans chose the NRM manifesto. As Independent Members of Parliament, our responsibility is to ensure our people benefit from its implementation.”

Ngabirano said most of those who signed the agreement were former NRM members who had contested the party’s internal elections before running as independents.

The Director of Legal Services at NRM, Counsel Enoch Barata, reiterated that members read and fully understood the terms and conditions before they signed the agreements.

“Nobody has been enticed with rewards or coerced to associate with us,” Barata said.

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Uganda Waragi, the spirit that actually tastes like home, has just doubled down on its partnership with the one and only Ray G, ahead of his concert this 7th August at Kololo Airstrip.

Uganda Waragi officially hosted Western Uganda’s musical royalty at Uganda Breweries for a visit that cements the brand’s lead partnership for the star’s biggest moment. 

The “King of the West” himself, Reagan Muhairwe, rolled through Uganda Breweries earlier today, much to the delight of staff who promptly abandoned their desks for a sing-along and a quick selfie or two.

This is the latest spark in Uganda Waragi’s ‘SO UG’ campaign, as the brand’s love letter to Ugandan stories, roots, and relentless hustle. Ray G is the walking, singing embodiment of this celebration.

“Ray G started in Mbarara, conquered Cricket Oval, and now he’s taking off to the next level at Kololo Airstrip,” said Brand Manager Core Mainstream Spirits, Roy Tumwizere.

“He is the absolute definition of SO UG with authentic lyrics, pride, and unbeatable vibes in his music. As Uganda Waragi, pouring our iconic spirit into his biggest night was a no-brainer. And between us? Expect some first class performances on stage and in your glasses for what will truly be an epic night.”

Excitement was equally high on the artist’s end with Ray G saying,

“Uganda Waragi knows how to throw a real Ugandan party. They get the music, they get the culture, and together we’re building a night Kololo and all of Uganda will never forget. Come through nituza kurebaana!”

Uganda Waragi is bringing a full experience featuring signature cocktail bars, party zones, and top-tier hospitality. On Friday, it’s all party but also about keeping it classy. Expect good vibes, better spirits, and a reminder to drink responsibly so you remember every epic second.

Tickets are moving fast at UGX 20,000 via Evento.ug and MTN Momo, courtesy of Abtex Promotions. So grab yours and let it be a party you don’t miss on Friday, Kololo Grounds.

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Equity Bank Uganda has strengthened its commitment to empowering women by contributing Shs10 million towards the third edition of the 2026 Watoto Golf Tournament.

The sponsorship was announced during the tournament’s partners’ press briefing held on Wednesday at the Uganda Golf Club. Equity Bank Uganda Managing Director, Gift Shoko, said the bank remains committed to investing in programmes that equip people with the skills and resources needed to transform their lives.

This year’s tournament, themed “Hope on the Green,” aims to raise Shs450 million to provide 1,000 vulnerable women with business starter kits valued at Shs450,000 each. The initiative is designed to help beneficiaries start small businesses, earn a stable income and improve the welfare of their families.

Shoko said the tournament aligns with Equity Bank’s broader mission of promoting financial inclusion and supporting women, young people and entrepreneurs.

“The Watoto Golf Tournament reflects our purpose of empowering women and youth through entrepreneurship. Every swing on the golf course this Saturday represents more than sport—it represents hope, opportunity and a chance for families to build a better future. We are proud to continue supporting an initiative that creates lasting economic transformation,” he said.

He added that the partnership goes beyond sponsorship, describing it as part of the bank’s long-term commitment to expanding economic opportunities for underserved communities.

The initiative complements Equity Bank’s flagship EquiMama programme, which supports women entrepreneurs through affordable financing, financial literacy training, business mentorship, networking opportunities and customised banking solutions.

Under the programme, women can access unsecured loans ranging from Shs100,000 to Shs5 million, alongside insurance cover for maternity, life, disability, fire and other emergencies. Mothers also receive maternity support, including antenatal insurance benefits.

Since its launch in 2021, EquiMama has trained more than 89,000 women in business development and entrepreneurship, while over 40,000 women have accessed loans through the programme. Originally introduced to help women recover from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative has continued to support female entrepreneurs, particularly in rural communities.

Beyond financing, the programme offers free financial literacy training, business advisory services, advanced entrepreneurship workshops and networking opportunities that connect women to markets, investment opportunities and other financial services.

Speaking at the briefing, Watoto Church Lead Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo welcomed Equity Bank’s continued support, saying partnerships between the private sector and faith-based organisations play a vital role in restoring hope and dignity to vulnerable families.

“The vision of the Watoto Golf Tournament is to empower women with practical opportunities to earn a living and care for their families. We appreciate partners like Equity Bank who believe that lasting change comes through empowerment. Every contribution made through this tournament helps restore hope, purpose and a brighter future for hundreds of families,” Rwotlonyo said.

The tournament programme began with a caddies’ competition on Monday and also features activities aimed at introducing more people to golf as part of efforts to make the sport more inclusive and accessible.

As golfers tee off this weekend, the tournament will serve as more than a sporting event. It will be a fundraising platform to help vulnerable women start businesses, strengthen household incomes and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

The initiative brings together Watoto Church, Uganda Golf Club, corporate sponsors and individual golfers in a shared effort to empower women through entrepreneurship and create lasting social impact.

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Jinja got its royal moment over the weekend as V&A Sherry partnered with Miss Uganda foundation to elevate the opening leg of their regional search, transforming the start of the Journey to the Crown into a celebration of ambition, sisterhood and shared success.

The celebrations began on Friday, at Le Jouri Lounge, where V&A Sherry hosted the ‘Party with the Queens’, a sunset-to-night experience that brought together reigning and former beauty queens, media personalities, pageant enthusiasts and guests to officially launch the Eastern regional search. Serving as the curtain-raiser to the auditions, the event celebrated the pageant’s legacy while setting the tone for another nationwide search for Uganda’s next queen.

The regional tour follows the official launch of the 2026 Miss Uganda season on June 18 and marks the return of the search to communities across the country in pursuit of young women whose ambition, leadership and talent could earn them the coveted crown.

By Sunday, the excitement had reached its climax as the Eastern regional finale crowned Nabirye Faith Magero, Ajambo Olivia, and Balwaani Patricia to represent the region in the Journey to the Crown 2026. The trio will now advance to the Miss Uganda Grand Finale on October 10, where one contestant will be crowned Miss Uganda 2026 and earn the honour of representing the country at Miss World.

For V&A Sherry, the partnership reflects the brand’s commitment to celebrating life’s meaningful milestones through its ‘Yours to Share’ platform.

“Miss Uganda is about confidence, purpose and celebrating women who inspire others through their journeys. Those are the moments people naturally want to share, and that’s where V&A Sherry feels most at home,” said Roy Ronald Tumwizere, Brand Manager, V&A Sherry at Uganda Breweries Limited. “We wanted to create an occasion where the queens, their supporters and the wider community could come together and celebrate the beginning of another remarkable journey.”

Throughout the weekend, the venue buzzed with excitement as guests gathered around the V&A Sherry experience, where signature cocktails, conversations and shared celebrations created an atmosphere that reflected the optimism of a new beginning. Elegant photo moments and branded installations drew guests together, making the activation a natural extension of the evening rather than simply a sponsorship.

The competition itself rewarded authenticity as much as beauty. Contestants impressed judges with thoughtful responses, confident stage presence and personalities that shone through every introduction. Some captivated the audience with effortless charisma, while others won admiration through quiet composure, reminding everyone that the pageant is about purpose as much as poise.

When the final results were announced, emotion swept across the venue. Overcome with joy, Eastern regional queen Nabirye Faith Magero fought back tears as the crown was placed on her head, while supporters erupted into cheers and applause.

“I am very happy that I have won today as queen to represent the East in the Miss Uganda pageant. This means everything to me. I’m grateful to everyone who believed in me and supported me. Representing Eastern Uganda is an honour, and I’m ready for the journey ahead,” she said.

The celebration belonged not only to the winners but also to the families, friends and communities that had rallied behind them. Fellow contestants embraced one another in a moving display of sisterhood, while supporters captured every moment on their phones, preserving memories that will long outlive the competition.

The regional search now heads to West Nile, Northern, Western and Central Uganda before culminating in the Miss Uganda Grand Finale at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel on October 10.

If Jinja is any indication, the Journey to the Crown has begun exactly as it should, with communities united behind their own, dreams taking flight and every milestone becoming another moment worth sharing.

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